Seville, known for its vibrant charm (or, as the locals would say, color especial), has a special allure that captivates both locals and visitors. It’s hard to put your finger on just what makes up the city’s unique essence, but if you’re determined to find out what it is, start by visiting the museums in Seville.
Whether you’re visiting the Andalusian capital for just the weekend, or planning to stay a little longer, give your next trip to Seville an added layer of local knowledge through some of the many museums this varied and cultural city has to offer. (Additionally, signing up for a small-group walking tour of Seville will also provide you with special insight into this vibrant city.)
The best museums in Seville to visit during any time of the year.
Museo de Bellas Artes
Slightly hidden away from the hustle and bustle that is the Cathedral and Alcázar, Seville’s own fine arts museum is a must visit for any art aficionado or those simply interested in the history of art.
It opened in 1839 and is housed in what was once a monastery built in the Andalusian Mudéjar style. Their collection of fine art stretches back as far as the middle ages, featuring mainly Spanish artists such as Francisco de Herrera, Murillo, El Greco, Velásquez, and Zurbarán.
Take time to wander around the ancient monastery walls, admire the views of some of the building’s charming patios, and, in warmer months, take a break from the heat in its temperature-controlled surroundings.
With low-cost tickets for non-EU visitors and free entry for residents of the European Union, don’t miss a perfect opportunity to learn about Spain’s rich art history at the Museo de Bellas Artes.
Insider’s tip: If you visit the museum on a Sunday morning, you’ll also get the chance to purchase some work by local artists at the weekly art fair that takes place in the plaza outside.
Hospital de los Venerables
Spread out over two floors and situated in the heart of Seville’s historic Santa Cruz neighborhood, the Hospital de Los Venerables (Plaza Venerables, 8) is a museum that can easily be missed as you get lost within the labyrinth that is the historic center.
Founded in 1627 as a residence for elderly, poor, and disabled priests (hence venerables), it operated briefly as a textile factory in the 1800s, before becoming a residence once again up until the 1970s. The building itself is an exquisite example of Sevilliano Baroque style, complete with an orange tree decorated courtyard.
Take time to appreciate the Centro Velázquez, dedicated to one of Seville’s most famous sons and his contemporaries. Marvel at the architecture within the interior church’s walls, and don’t miss the opportunity to get a great view of the cathedral and its magnificent Giralda from the second floor.
Finish your visit with a tapa and a crisp manzanilla sherry from our friends at Casa Roman, located not far from the entrance. Home to some of the best tapas caseras (homemade) and some of the best jamón ibérico de bellota and fried fish in the historic center, you will see why Casa Roman is a part of the renowned Seville Tapas, Taverns & History Tour operated by our friends at Devour Tours.
Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares
Located beyond the magnificent 1920s Plaza de España in Parque María Luisa, the Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions of Sevilla (Plaza de América) is often overlooked. However, if you truly want to grasp the essence of Seville’s traditions and their historical roots, this museum is a must-visit.
Housed in yet another stunning setting inspired by Mudéjar architecture, travel back in time and discover the profound influence that Seville—and all of Andalusia—draw from its rich historical legacy.
With free exhibitions ranging from winemaking to goldsmithing, flamenco, to even the cultivation of wheat, this museum is both interesting and engaging for people of all ages.
Finish up your visit by strolling back towards the city center via Parque María Luisa, arguably one of Europe’s prettiest urban parks.
Archivo de Indias
No doubt about it, the Seville we know today wouldn’t be the city we know and love had it not been for the colonial period. Thanks to expeditions sponsored by the Catholic Kings, Ferdinand and Isabel, Seville was put firmly on the map thanks to it being the first European city to receive and trade riches from the New World.
If you’re interested in learning more about this fascinating period of modern history, then you simply must visit the General Archive of the Indias (Avenida de la Constitución, Edificio de la Lonja), located a stone’s throw from the cathedral.
Home to nine kilometers of shelving and over 80 million pages of colonial documentation going back as far as the 16th century, this museum in Seville is a must-visit for any history buff keen on learning more about Spain’s influence on the world stage following the discovery of the new world.
Insider’s tip: If you work up an appetite, enjoy some of the city’s best fried fish (and beat the tourist traps) at Freiduría La Isla (Calle García de Vinuesa), one of the highlights on our Tastes, Tapas and Traditions of Sevilla tour.
Casa de Pilatos
A little off the beaten track but well worth a visit, you will quickly see why locals rank this beautifully preserved 16th century palatial home second only to the Alcázar in terms of beauty.
Built by order of Don Pedro Enriquez following his son Fadrique Enriques de Ribera’s pilgrimage to Jerusalem in the 16th century, the Casa de Pilatos is named after the house of Pontius Pilate, of which Fadrique was particularly impressed by.
With styles ranging from Gothic, Mudéjar, and also Italian renaissance, the main highlight of this incredible location is the beautifully adorned patio.
To add to this, the palace’s many marble columns, floors, corridors, ceiling paintings, wooden doors, and mudejar tiling will give you a real sense of how the aristocracy lived in Seville all those centuries ago.
Insider’s Tip: Head up to Plaza Alfalfa following your visit to grab a drink and a tapa in one of the square’s many bars and enjoy people watching as the mix of locals and tourists go about their day.
Antiquarium de Sevilla
A trip to Seville wouldn’t be complete without getting to know more about the city’s ancient Roman roots by visiting the Antiquarium de Sevilla, located under the Metropol Parasol, colloquially known by locals as Las Setas (mushrooms).
The Antiquarium offers more than just a history lesson. Situated at the heart of Seville, where the Roman city of Hispalis was founded, it provides a captivating glimpse into the city’s ancient past. What’s even better is the incredible value for money it offers.
Insider’s Tip: Your ticket also gives you access to the panoramic view from the top of the parasol, so be sure to get here an hour or so before dusk to enjoy the ruins below, and some of the best sunset views of the city!
Palacio Marqueses de la Algaba
If you enjoyed Casa de Pilatos, then travel even further off the beaten track to the local Feria neighborhood to the Palacio Marqueses de la Algaba (Plaza Calderón de la Barca).
Beautifully restored to its 15th century glory following a painstakingly long process, this noble Renaissance palatial residence is another classic example of civil Mudéjar art within the city of Seville.
Currently housing the Department for Education, Citizen Participation and Municipal Buildings of Seville City Council, the palace has also recently become home to the Mudéjar Art Center, and its picturesque patio regularly plays host to various events and functions throughout the year.
If you’re a foodie, we also recommend a trip to the Mercado de Feria while you’re in the neighborhood. With fresh local produce available to both buy and consume on site, this market is a perfect pit stop.
Insider’s Tip: At the Mercado de Feria (Calle Feria), every time you purchase a drink, you’ll receive a token to spend on a tapa of choice. But there are also plenty of vendors on the outside walls who offer traditional sit-down food and drink services.
Centro Ceramica Triana
Seville’s close connection with ceramics, pottery, and tiles is one of its most treasured aspects, and if you find yourself venturing across the river to Triana, then a visit to the Centro Ceramica is fully recommended.
Influenced by the clay soil of the Guadalquivir valley, Seville’s relationship with clay pottery can be traced back as far as the neolithic ages, but the ceramics we know and love today come originally from the district of Triana during the Islamic period.
Interested in learning more? Let the Centro Ceramica’s two floors bring you on a journey through time with both its permanent and temporary exhibits.
Insider’s Tip: Discover the art of purchasing authentic Sevillian souvenirs while avoiding tourist traps.